The Durban Business Fair, one of South Africa's premier business events, returned for its 26th year in 2024, offering a platform for entrepreneurs, small business owners, and industry leaders to connect, innovate, and thrive. This year's edition took place from 24 to 27 at Umnyandu Mall Shopping Centre, attracting thousands of visitors and participants from across the region and continent.
The Business fair also catered for the little ones as they were pampered with some face painting, games and lunch as well as Kiddos entrepreneur skills. Who said only adults can be Business owners and not the kiddos? Well the kiddos were also given a huge platform and opportunity to showcase their talent and ideas.
Theme: Regional Fairs – Back To promoting Township Businesses and Economics.
The 2024 Durban Business Fair was held under the theme Regional Fairs – Back to promoting Township Businesses and Economics , which emphasized the importance of supporting local businesses as well and creating jobs for the youth. This theme resonated with the fair's objective of fostering a culture of entrepreneurship, innovation, and cooperation among businesses, governments, and communities.
Key Highlights
1. Exhibition and Showcase: The fair featured over 100 exhibitors from various sectors, including manufacturing, technology, agriculture, fashion and services. Participants showcased their products and services, sharing insights into the latest trends and innovations.
2. Business Matchmaking: A dedicated matchmaking program facilitated targeted meetings between buyers, suppliers, and investors, fostering potential partnerships and business deals.
3. Conference and Seminars: On the 26th a comprehensive conference program featured keynote addresses, panel discussions, and workshops focused on critical topics such as digital transformation, sustainable development, and access to finance.
4. Entrepreneurship Development: The fair included a dedicated entrepreneurship zone, offering training, mentoring, and resources for start-ups and aspiring entrepreneurs.
Speakers and Dignitaries
The 2024 Durban Business Fair welcomed an impressive lineup of speakers, including:
Business Indaba: Cooperative Development and Construction Insights
A highlight of the fair was the 2-day Business Indaba, held on October 24 and 25, which brought together experts to share knowledge and ideas on cooperative development and construction.
Day 1: Cooperative Development Indaba
The first day of the Business Indaba, hosted at Kwamnyandu Mall shopping center, focused on cooperative development. The dynamic discussions and innovative ideas shared by the esteemed guest speakers inspired attendees to explore collaborative business models. The speakers included:
Ms. Khuthala Lengisi, Analyst at Cooperative Banks Development Agency
Mr. Johnny Mutemba, CEO of Build Africa Group
Ms. Snelisiwe Hlongwane, Marketing and Communication expert from Durban University of Technology
Mr. Zwakele Ndovela, Director at the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform, and Rural Development
Day 2: Construction Development Indaba
The second day of the Business Indaba shifted gears to construction development, showcasing cutting-edge insights from industry leaders. The expert speakers shared valuable knowledge on:
Innovative construction technologies
Sustainable building practices
Accessing funding for construction projects
The lineup of speakers included:
Busi Gumede, Senior Accounts Manager at Thala Bank
Mr. Trevor Zumani, Manager, Design and Construction Department at SANRAL
Ms. Noxolo Mnculwane, Marketing Communication and Training Coordinator at National Home Builders Registration Council
DJ Sbu, Social Entrepreneur, DJ, TV, and Radio Host
Mr. Clive Manci, Executive Chairman of Cleo Chairman Investment Holdings
Mr. Xolani Qwabe, LED Project Manager at Property Point
Dr. Connie Israel, Executive Director of Institutional Advancement at Mangosuthu University of Technology
Mr. Brian Mpono, CEO of Oceans Umhlanga Development
Outcomes and Impact
The Durban Business Fair 2024 achieved significant outcomes, including:
1. Job Creation: The fair created a sum of jobs, both directly and indirectly.
2. Networking: Thousands of business connections were made, fostering potential collaborations and growth opportunities.
3. Skills Development: Hundreds of participants benefited from training and capacity-building initiatives.
The Durban Business Fair 2024 reinforced its position as a vital catalyst for business growth, innovation, and economic development in the region. As the fair continues to evolve, it remains a pivotal platform for connecting businesses, governments, and communities, driving progress and prosperity in South Africa and beyond.
Save the Date: Durban Business Fair 2025
Mark your calendars for the next edition of the Durban Business Fair. Don't miss this opportunity to connect, innovate, and thrive in the heart of KwaZulu-Natal.
Latest Attended Events by Ntombizodwa Dlamini. Durban, South Africa 2024
Mondays Magazine Publications.
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